Archbishop Holgate's School Prospectus 2011 by Beetleman

Archbishop Holgateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School A Church of England Academy Founded 1546

PROSPECTUS

Justice

Compassio

Justice means giving everyone what is right and fair. We act out of concern for each other in our school community and the world in which we live. Working for justice encourages all of us to have hope for the future.

As a school community we strive to show compassion in all we do, by being sensitive to the needs of others in our school community and beyond. We want to share with others the compassion that we, ourselves, receive.

ness

Forgive

Following Jesus’ example forgiveness is at the centre of all we do. Showing forgiveness requires us to have courage and strength, bringing us freedom from anger and a sense of peace. Forgiveness means we take responsibility for what we have done wrong and we desire not to do again.

Trust Trust is at the heart of all we do and all the relationships that underpin our school community, helping us to live and learn together in harmony. Trust allows us to work together to enrich every member of our community and make the most of our individual gifts and talents.

Our Values Inspired by the example of Jesus’ life, these are the values we seek to nurture as a school community and live out day by day. © Archbishop Holgate’s School, York. 2011.

Archbishop Holgate’s School A Church of England Academy Founded 1546

Contents The School

Additional Information

Welcome to Archbishop Holgate’s School

Moving into secondary school

The school day

Church of England Academy

School life

Caring for the individual

Homework

School uniform

Travelling to & from school

School meals

The Curriculum Curriculum

Extra-curricular activities & trips

Art & Design

Admissions

Design & Technology

Admissions Policy for Year 7 2012

English & Media

Further information

Geography

History

Archbishop Holgate’s School governors

Information & Communication Technology

Modern Languages

Work Related Learning

Mathematics

Music

Physical Education

Religious Education

Science

Sixth Form education

Justice

Compassio

ness

Forgive

Our Values Inspired by the example of Jesus’ life, these are the values we seek to nurture as a school community and live out day by day. © Archbishop Holgate’s School, York. 2011.

Welcome to Archbishop Holgate’s School Parents and Guardians I am delighted that you are considering Archbishop Holgate’s School for the next stage of your son or daughter’s educational journey. Choosing the right secondary school is a vital decision for each and every family. I hope that the information in this prospectus, together with our strong reputation within the local community, will give you a flavour of what we believe is distinct and special about Archbishop Holgate’s School. We have a long tradition of serving the community of York dating back to 1546. Founded in the reign of King Henry VIII as York’s cathedral school we are now proud to be a Church of England Academy and to provide the best possible education and opportunities for each and every student. At the heart of all we do is a commitment to ‘Values, Care and Achievement’: • Christian values that underpin all we do.

• Outstanding pastoral care that sees each student as an individual. • Maximum achievement for all students, at all levels. We seek to offer an environment which is hard working, secure and caring, and in which students and staff take pride in their achievements. We believe in a curriculum which develops the academic potential of each student, and is at the same time broad enough to meet each individual need. We believe that we have a learning environment where our students are happy, motivated and ultimately successful. Archbishop Holgate’s School benefits from a range of high quality facilities. We have excellent Science laboratories, well-equipped multi-media rooms and an outstanding new Sixth Form building. We have excellent facilities for Technology; suites of rooms for English, Mathematics, Modern Languages, and for RE, History and Geography as well as specialist Art and Music suites. Sports facilities are outstanding: the school has its own heated indoor swimming pool, extensive playing fields on site, sports hall and gym, and five tennis courts. The future for Archbishop Holgate’s School is extremely exciting. This is a time of rising results and recognition and the school is flourishing. We are fully subscribed from Years 7 to 11, have a rapidly expanding Sixth Form and our shift to Academy status has given us the additional capacity to build on the outstanding judgements given to us by

both Ofsted and SIAS. Moving forward we will continue to ensure that all students succeed, making the most of their individual gifts and talents. Our Ofsted Inspection report described Archbishop Holgate’s as “an outstanding school”, a judgement accorded to only one secondary school in ten, with “excellent quality of education and care ... excellent teaching and support for learning ... high standards ... excellent range of extension courses ... outstanding opportunities for gifted and talented ... excellent spiritual, moral, social and cultural development ... leadership and management are outstanding ... this is a school where every child does matter”. I hope this prospectus answers some of the questions you may have about Archbishop Holgate’s. If you would like to find out more, we will be pleased to make an appointment to see you. We value a close working relationship between students, parents and the school and pride ourselves on our communication with parents through weekly newsletters, a new text service and an outstanding VLE (Virtual Learning Environment). We welcome students from a wide geographical area with parents from nineteen different Primary Schools selecting Archbishop Holgate’s School last year. Parents and prospective students who would like to arrange a visit on a normal working day, to sample its atmosphere and experience something of what Archbishop Holgate’s offers, will be very welcome.

Andrew Daly Headteacher

“

Values Care Achievement

“

Schools are rooted in their local communities, listening carefully to and reflecting the traditions and concerns of those communities. But more than that, Church schools stand for values within the Christian tradition which parents perceive to belong to our heritage as a nation and the ethical standards and moral norms which go back to the teaching of Christ. The Archbishop of Canterbury

Church of England Academy Christian values underpin the school’s endeavour to be a caring community, within which each individual matters. We aim to serve the community by providing an education of the highest quality within the context of Christian belief and practice. A belief in the value of each person as an individual is essential, and through our inclusivity we believe that children of all abilities can and do flourish at Archbishop Holgate’s. The move from Voluntary Aided status in April 2011 to a Church of England Academy signals a deepening of the school’s commitment to an ethos in which Christian values are lived into being. Our Christian foundation will continue to remain at the centre of all we do and give the school an extra dimension and a distinctiveness which makes us different from a community school. Our Church status does not provide a context for evangelising; but those committed to the Christian path will find many ways in which their faith can find expression through the corporate values of the school. The Christian ethos of the school is supported by regular collective worship. All Assemblies have a clear Christian focus and are complemented by a fortnightly Chapel Assembly and through tutor time where students explore

‘Thought for the Day’ each and every morning. Indeed during the 2010/11 academic year the school community collectively decided that the Christian Values of trust, forgiveness, compassion and justice were the ones that most closely represented the work we do as a school. Archbishop Holgate’s is also committed to the concept of service and to support those less fortunate than themselves, with charity work and volunteering a priority throughout main school and Sixth Form. The commitment to the Christian way of life is at the heart of our caring community, within which each individual matters and where our own personal conduct should model the values and integrity that underpin the entire school community. Our links with the Church of England include an annual invitation to hold our Carol Service in York Minster; a deepening relationship with our ‘home’ parish of Heslington; and developing links with other parishes and churches within the area we serve. Archbishop Holgate’s is not, however, an exclusively Church of England institution. The school is committed to exploring ways in which these and other links with the Church of England can be deepened, and ways in which our links with other denominations and faiths can also be further developed. Members of the school community – both students and staff – come to Archbishop Holgate’s from a wide variety of denominations, beliefs and faiths, and are gladly accepted,

in the expectation that they will feel at ease in such a setting.

Citizenship – supporting and furthering the Citizenship curriculum.

Faith – making the school a place in which the study and practice of Christianity and other faiths is central through religious education lessons, collective worship and the work of the Chaplaincy team.

SMSC – celebrating the spiritual, moral, social and cultural dimension of the curriculum.

Care – setting out to be a caring community, within which each student is known as a individual and cared for as an individual. Spiritual development – using the extra dimension that our Christian foundation brings, by allowing it to provide a context within which moral and spiritual development can be nurtured, in an atmosphere of trust and understanding. Collective worship – modelling for students a commitment to ‘Thought for the Day’ and collective worship, and supporting students in delivering form assemblies which express Christian values. Charity fundraising – promoting a commitment to helping others in need. Service to the community – encouraging service to others, both within school and through volunteering and service in the wider community.

Chaplaincy – seeing the work of the chaplaincy team as integral to school life. Personal conduct – aiming in our own personal conduct to model Christian values such as trust, forgiveness, compassion and justice. “Recognising its historic foundation, the school will preserve and develop its religious character in accordance with the principles of the Church of England and in partnership with the Church at parish and diocesan level. The school aims to serve its community by providing an education of the highest quality within the context of Christian belief and practice. It encourages an understanding of the meaning and significance of faith, and promotes Christian values through the experience it offers to all its students.” Ethos statement – Archbishop Holgate’s School Instrument of Governance

Caring for the individual at Archbishop Holgate’s School We place great emphasis on a disciplined and ordered environment in which students can feel secure and give of their best. In keeping with the values of our Church School, we aim to foster the development of the whole person, in a calm and positive atmosphere, in which both students and staff work together with mutual respect, courtesy and consideration for others. A team of people work very hard to ensure that students are known and cared for throughout their time in Archbishop Holgate’s School. This team consists of Form Tutors, Heads of Year, the Director of Sixth Form and the Head of Pastoral Care as well as the Lay Chaplain.

We believe that Archbishop Holgate’s School is a very special place to be. Our last OFSTED inspection confirmed this view by saying that pastoral care was a strength of this outstanding school. We believe that we are a very caring school and aim to ensure that each student is able to achieve the very best for themselves in a structured, ordered and secure environment. A vital part of this team approach to student care and achievement is the partnership with parents. We regularly inform parents of each child’s progress both academically and personally. We contact parents as soon as we think there might be a problem or if a child has achieved a high standard.

Our mission Christian values an ethos which lives Christian values into being Care for the individual effective pastoral care with students valued as individuals Maximum achievement maximum achievement for each student at all levels

We do this through reports, the student planner, phone calls, letters, text messages and e-mail. We like this to work both ways and would hope that parents will contact us if they have any concerns or to let us know that something has been particularly successful. We do take a very firm line with any student who lets him or herself down by either misbehaving or underachieving. The school is well known for treating students fairly but firmly. We are a Church School and our policy is to treat each child as an individual while ensuring that the needs of the group are not overlooked.

Any incidences of misbehaviour and particularly bullying are dealt with speedily and firmly with an emphasis on restoring self-esteem. Attendance and punctuality are key factors in securing achievement. We therefore work hard to monitor and track students whose attendance may prevent them from achieving their best. This includes contact with parents and discussions with staff to help families overcome any barriers to good attendance. We are proud of our studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; achievements and work together with them and their parents to make sure that they achieve the best that they possibly can.

The curriculum at Archbishop Holgateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School Curriculum Art & Design Design & Technology English & Media Geography History Information & Communication Technology Modern Languages Work Related Learning Mathematics Music Physical Education Religious Education Science Sixth Form education

Our Values Justice Justice means giving everyone what is right and fair. We act out of concern for each other in our school community and the world in which we live. Working for justice encourages all of us to have hope for the future.

Curriculum

Heads of Departments work with their experienced teams to ensure that the material presented to the students:

At Archbishop Holgate’s School we strive to ensure that the curriculum has: balance, breadth, depth and continuity throughout all Key Stages.

• is capable of stimulating their curiosity • allows for recognition of the difference between truth and falsehood

The curriculum is designed to ensure that all students are exposed to the following essential areas of experience:

• distinguishes between fact and feeling

•

Aesthetic

• activates emotional responses

•

Creative

•

Ethical

• generates the ability to sustain an argument and to tackle problems in a creative way

•

Linguistic

•

Literary

•

Mathematical

•

Physical

•

Scientific

•

Social

We ensure flexibility and relevance for the students, being mindful of their needs and interests, as well as the demands of society at large.

•

Political

We encourage an awareness of the dangers of ignorance.

•

Spiritual

•

Technological

We ensure students take proper account of the society in which we live and then prepare students to take their places in it.

• provides for different learning strategies • develops an awareness of communal and individual lifestyles • develops an awareness of numerical processes

Each Head of Department works tirelessly to meet our curriculum aims; to foster a love of learning and a spirit of success and high expectation.

Curriculum KS3/KS4 Main school students undertake the following subjects with weekly time allocations in hours indicated in brackets:

Key Stage 3 Year 7

All students with the exception of those on Diploma courses, Study Plus or Work based learning undertake: Modern Foreign Language (2) (French, German or Spanish) and a Humanity (History or Geography) plus two Option Subjects from the list shown below, which may include doubles from the MFL or humanity subjects. • Art and Design • Graphics • Textiles • Product Design

RE (2), English and Literacy (4), Maths (3), Science (3), Food/Textiles (1), Product Design (1), ICT (1), History (2), Geography (2),

• Media

Modern Foreign Language (2), Art (1), Music (1), PE (2)

• Music

Year 8 and 9 As for Year 7, except that English reduces to 3 periods and Modern Foreign Language increases from 2 to 3.

Key Stage 4 All students take the following subjects: Maths (3), English (3), Science (5), PE (2), RE (1), Guidance & Enterprise (1), ICT (1)

• PE

• Business Studies • ICT (Extended) • Dance Some students incorporate Critical Thinking Short Course GCSE into the Guidance time. All students gain the preparation for working life qualification during Guidance time. Some students are selected to complete a qualification in Nutrition and Health during Guidance time.

Art & Design In Art and Design we aim to foster creativity, an understanding of visual language and independent learning skills. We seek to develop studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; visual and tactile skills through working with different materials, and to relate these experiences to a broad spectrum of European and world artists and designers. During Key Stage 3, students develop their skills through drawing and painting, printmaking, clay and three dimensional work in a range of media. They explore and develop an understanding of different cultures, study a range of traditional and contemporary art movements, and undertake projects in applied learning. Throughout Key Stage 3 we seek through Art and Design to encourage studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; individual interests, a sense of achievement and pride through the artistic process, and above all an enjoyment of the subject.

Students in Years 10 and 11 may opt for GCSE Art and Design, the OCR Level 2 National Award, or the National Certificate in Art and Design. Year 11 students are increasingly encouraged to develop their own individual ideas and approaches from starting points set by the teacher or the examination board. Students who wish to pursue a career in Art and Design continue with their studies in the Sixth Form through our OCR Level 3 National Certificate in Art and Design, and are given every encouragement and support. Homework is set weekly. After school art sessions provide opportunities for students to complete homework using specialist materials and facilities to extend their work, helped and guided by Art and Design staff. GCSE and Sixth Form students are offered further opportunities to work towards their exhibitions through after school sessions, out of hours learning and Easter holiday sessions.

Design & Technology We aim through Design and Technology to offer a unique learning experience, to stimulate curiosity about everyday products and develop skills and knowledge essential for an increasingly technologically advancing world. Our integrated Key Stage 3 Design and Technology programme draws together Food Technology, Textiles Technology and Product Design. Our facilities are first class, including specialist workshops, kitchens and studios, and access to virtual rapid prototyping, laser cutters and industrystandard computer aided design, graphic design and electronic programming software. Students in Years 7, 8 and 9 study all aspects of the design process, including how professional designers and manufacturers work together to develop and market new products. The course includes aspects of architecture, electronic product design, engineering, fashion design, food production, graphic design, nutrition, and computer aided design and manufacture. It aims to develop skills of creativity, teamwork, independent problem solving and communication as well as practical skills. The curriculum includes industrial practice and links with local industries.

We have outstanding extra-curricular opportunities within Design and Technology ranging from designers in residence and business links to enterprise activities and local, regional and national competitions. Several GCSE courses are offered within Design and Technology. Textiles Technology and Graphic Design are varied, interesting courses giving students the opportunity to apply designing and making skills to produce quality products, exploring modern materials and well-known designers then applying these to studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; own creative work using industry standard equipment. Food Technology explores a variety of modern and cultural dishes and gives an opportunity for students to design their own products for a particular age or need. Engineering combines academic and applied learning styles and includes all sectors of engineering ranging from civil engineering to electronic engineering. For Sixth Form study we offer a wide range of technological and industrial design options, offered in a Sixth Form building with outstanding specialist facilities, and featuring business links which are second to none across the city.

English & Media Because success in English promotes success in all subjects, we offer students a wide range of opportunities to develop their reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. We want our students to develop their understanding of the world around them by becoming fluent, accurate communicators. Language skills of all kinds are developed to promote fluency, accuracy and the enjoyment of reading. Students encounter a wide variety of texts from non-fiction media texts to well-known classic writing fundamental to our culture, encompassing poetry, prose and drama. Students read regularly in class and are encouraged to read widely for pleasure. Speaking and listening skills are developed through class and group discussion, drama and formal presentations. Building on their growing confidence, we expect students as they grow older to be ready to perform and to listen with real attention to their peers. Drama forms an important part of Key Stage 3 English, helping students understand the texts they study, as well as developing confidence in speaking skills. Media forms another key element of English; those with a genuine interest in Media can opt to extend their knowledge and skills through GCSE Media Studies â&#x20AC;&#x201C; combining theoretical understanding of audience, representation, institution and language with practical applications â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and on into our Sixth Form curriculum.

We teach writing in a variety of styles for a variety of purposes. Our emphasis throughout is on developing accuracy and a clear sense of audience. Spelling, grammar and punctuation skills are taught systematically, highlighted regularly, and reinforced through testing. Literacy and catch-up classes and differentiated teaching give further support as appropriate. Our outstanding Key Stage 3 work provides strong foundations for GCSE English, GCSE English Literature and Sixth Form study. Results have consistently shown very high added value reflecting some of the best progress in the country. We aim to foster the enjoyment of English through a broad range of materials, themes and ideas. Our literacy-based approach includes language work; novels, short stories, drama and poetry from different periods; and opportunities to develop sensitive understanding and clear thinking. Regular homework develops and extends work done in class, as staff seek to help students to full awareness of the pleasures of accurate and thoughtful communication. Out of school hours students have opportunities to develop their skills in a school drama club, through theatre visits, lectures, and a creative course which is offered to gifted and talented writers.

Geography Geography seeks to examine both the physical forces that create the world around us, and the human impact upon it. Studying Geography will enable you to develop a wide range of useful skills relevant to many industry sectors. The subject covers an interesting mix of topics and will help you to further understand the world today. The syllabus is designed to explore present day issues and provide you with an opportunity to develop your own opinions. We aim to bring Geography alive through students applying their learning to real life situations; simulations such as the Fair Trade chocolate game exploring issues between the developing and developed countries; global sustainability; breaking news stories showing the impact of Geography. Educational visits are an important part of the programme of study, with students visiting places such as Malham, Flamborough Head and Goathland, while conducting field studies to enhance classroom teaching by setting work within the context of the real world. Geography in Years 7 to 9 ranges from human topics such as population and globalisation to physical topics including how the earth is shaped by rivers and tectonic movement. Environmental issues such as sustainability and climate change are also central to the course.

GCSE Geography combines a coursework enquiry with fieldwork and modular examinations. The enquiry element includes sorting and presenting data, decision-making, as well as displaying an understanding of the environment, economic understanding and sustainability. A-Level areas of study can include the following: • Population - changing population and its effect on society, managing population growth, migration and urban population change. • Glaciation - the landforms and processes associated with cold lands (ice, meltwater and permafrost). Exploitation and development of cold land areas, including the future of Antarctica. • Energy - managing energy, including sources, environmental impact and sustainable use of energy. • Rivers - river features and processes, hydrology and the causes and management of flooding. Rivers also form the compulsory fieldwork element of the course.

Our Values Compassion As a school community we strive to show compassion in all we do, by being sensitive to the needs of others in our school community and beyond. We want to share with others the compassion that we, ourselves, receive.

History Students in York are surrounded by history and, at Archbishop Holgate’s School, study the subject in one of the country’s most historic schools. We want students to engage with the ‘story’ of history and see how it relates to their own lives. We deal with everyday ideas such as continuity, change, chronology, cause and consequence as well as source analysis, historical enquiry, and concepts like democracy, revolution and citizenship. Most importantly, we want all students to enjoy History and succeed at it.

History is an extremely popular option at GCSE and students follow the OCR Modern World History course. This comprises of three key elements; the Cold War and its impact from 1945; an in-depth study of America during the 1920’s and 1930’s; and a source study of Britain between 1890 and 1918. In addition, students also complete a controlled assessment on the Civil Rights movement in the USA, with emphasis on Martin Luther-King. There is also an opportunity to visit Poland for a moving visit to Auschwitz.

We look both at knowledge about the past, and at the skills and methods which make sense of it. Students in Years 7-9 see how developments from the Norman Conquest to the twenty-first century have helped to shape the society, culture, economy and political structure of modern Britain, and also study the non-European world, including American and African history. Students of all ages are introduced to a wide range of stimulus materials and sources of historical evidence - including archive materials, artefacts, exhibits, film and fieldwork. We have good links with the Castle Museum, Eden Camp and York Archaeological Trust. Regular homeworks and research projects build on work done in class.

Students choose A-Level History because it involves a fascinating journey into exploring past societies, individuals, ideas and values. History is regarded by employers as an excellent subject for developing analytical ability and the capacity for debate. The subject is highly regarded by admissions tutors for universities, as it equips you with so many transferable skills.

Information & Communication Technology Our excellent Information and Communication Technology facilities are acknowledged as among the very best in the area. We have four fully-equipped multi-media computer rooms, including digital cameras, web cams and scanners; broadband internet access; and a wide range of subject software. There are also computer stations and data projectors in each classroom throughout the school; interactive whiteboards; and a Library Resource area with networked computer terminals, each replacing huge sets of reference books. Our facilities are under constant development; our new Daniel, Johnson, Vinter and Woodward ICT Rooms all feature the latest networked multimedia computing technology. A new VLE allows students to personalise their learning by accessing resources, learning materials and their school network area from home, while also giving access to attainment and attendance data, blogs and forums.

Year 7 students are introduced to word processing, desktop publishing, spreadsheets, control and presentations. In Years 8 and 9 they further develop their information and communication technology skills in these and other areas including web design and databases, and apply them in context. They are then ready to enter the Level 2 National, a GCSE-level qualification. As well as being an important subject taught in its own right, Information and Communication Technology is fundamental to all subjects, and is therefore also taught across the curriculum as part of English, Mathematics, Science, Technology and the Humanities. All students continue cross-curricular ICT work at Key Stage 4. In addition, students may also opt for additional GCSE-level qualifications in two subjects, both of which have a very strong record of success: either ICT, or Business Studies, which includes applied ICT. Our Sixth Form students have the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and skills in Business and ICT in a fully ICT-enabled Learning Centre with state-of-the-art facilities and excellent business links.

Modern Languages All students study German in Year 7. French is introduced later in Key Stage 3. Each course aims to develop studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ability and confidence in the four skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. Lessons include extensive use of CD-ROM recordings, internet, DVD, interactive whiteboard, computers, pair-work and group-work. As much as possible of each lesson is conducted in the target language of German or French. Homework can include reading and writing exercises, learning to recognise or spell vocabulary for a test, or perhaps making a recording or PowerPoint presentation. In Years 7 to 9 students build on language skills developed in primary schools and apply them in situations that might be encountered in a foreign country, such as asking the way, shopping, travelling, or staying with a French or German family. At the same time they learn to say and write more about themselves and their families, school, hobbies, food and drink, and other everyday situations, leading to students gaining confidence in using tenses, offering opinions and speaking and writing with increasing detail and accuracy.

As some students will be able to progress more quickly than others, as far as possible students are grouped by ability. All groups cover the same topics at appropriate levels of attainment, and the four skill areas are formally assessed on a regular basis according to National Curriculum criteria. In Years 10 and 11 all students have the opportunity to continue the study of at least one foreign language to examination level. A Languages Club gives students opportunity to stay in touch with languages studied at primary school. All students are offered opportunities to join trips abroad to Germany and France, to learn more about the culture and practise their developing language skills in a real-life context.

Work Related Learning The Work Related Learning programme aims to empower learners with the skills employers are looking for â&#x20AC;&#x201C; working with others, communication skills, problem solving skills, self awareness, resilience and creativity. It also hopes to open learnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eyes to the opportunities available to them and to provide them with the support and means to achieve their goals. Work Related Learning also aims to improve confidence, self esteem and social skills applicable to all elements of adult life. The programme is offered through option choices to selected students. Students are selected by the Learning Support Department and Head of Year. Parents and students are then invited in to discuss the course in full detail. Students and parents can then make the decision to remain in the mainstream selection of GCSEs if they feel the programme is not appropriate for them. Students will not be selected for Work Related Learning if they have attendance issues or serious behaviour difficulties. Students will also study English, Maths and Science at GCSE or Entry Level.

Work Related Learning involves alternative study and a more practical, work-based approach to learning. Students will study the ASDAN Bronze Award, ASDAN CoPE (Certificate of Personal Effectiveness) and Wider Key Skills at Level 1. Students must complete an extended work placement which is attended on a weekly basis from the summer term of Year 10 through Year 11. Students will also take part in a variety of trips and visits, including liaising with other outside agencies. The course aims to increase the employability of learners and/or encourage them into occupations, apprenticeships or continued education leading to vocational qualifications. Many students continue their Work Related Learning into Sixth Form where they are joined by students from other schools across York on our nationally recognised Sixth Form programme of study.

“

Excellent quality of education and care ... excellent teaching and support for learning ... high standards ... excellent range of extension courses ... outstanding opportunities for gifted and talented ... excellent spiritual, moral, social and cultural development ... leadership and management are outstanding ... this is a school where every child does matter. OFSTED

Mathematics We believe that all students should be given a balanced and varied experience of Mathematics, to enable them to choose and make use of its skills, knowledge and understanding, both in other subjects and in everyday life. Our wide ranging scheme of work has been highly commended by Inspectors. It builds directly on the numeracy work done by students in primary schools; it can be used flexibly to ensure that each student starts at an appropriate level; it incorporates many skills (computer and calculator techniques, problem solving, estimation, spatial awareness and others) that will be required in many other subjects; and it contains a great deal of material to extend and enthuse our most able students without prejudicing the progress and development of others in the group.

In Year 7, students study a variety of modules, covering such topics as basic numeracy, data handling, probability, number patterns, algebra and graphs. Students will be assessed on the work covered at the end of each term. Homework, which normally takes between half and three quarters of an hour, is set each week. Work in Years 8 and 9 builds on these foundations. Some investigative work is undertaken, as is some kinaesthetic work, all of which contributes to the overall assessment of students’ learning and progress. Our recent results have been excellent, after a great deal of enthusiastic hard work by students and staff alike. In Years 10 and 11, students study the higher National Curriculum levels to GCSE Mathematics (and, where appropriate, GCSE Statistics), building on their progress during Key Stage 3 and paving the way for specialist study in the Sixth Form. This includes a popular and successful ‘A’ Level Mathematics course and Further Maths, which can be studied to support Science or Technology subjects or can be chosen in its own right.

Music We are fortunate at Archbishop Holgateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in having committed staff and excellent facilities for the teaching of this National Curriculum subject. Our recently refurbished music block, with its spacious classrooms and practice areas, is one of the best in the area. Students experience Music through a wide range of practical activities, including performing, improvising and composing different musical styles, listening to and responding to music, and using music technology to assist in composition and record their work. Students are encouraged to stretch the imagination, heighten aural perception, and experiment. Students in Years 10 and 11 may opt for GCSE Music and, in recent years, several have gone on to pursue their study of the subject at Advanced Diploma level or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Level.

We believe strongly that commitment, interest and enthusiasm are as important as musical experience. Activities include choir, orchestra, bands, ensembles, clubs and workshops leading to concerts and Cabaret Evenings. Tuition is offered on woodwind, brass, percussion, strings, guitar, bass, keyboard and voice, with opportunity to take graded examinations for rock, classical and jazz musicians. Other highlights of the year include our musical productions, music for our Awards ceremony, and our annual Carol Service in York Minster.

Physical Education Our outstanding sports facilities include a 25 metre heated indoor swimming pool, fully equipped gymnasium and sports hall, tennis courts and excellent on-site playing fields.

Activities include: Swimming

Gymnastics

Throughout their teaching of team games and individual activities, PE staff seek to promote learning, enjoyment, progress and respect for others, together with the development of skills, and establishing a positive attitude towards participation. We seek to provide a programme of activities that can create success and enjoyment at all levels. As students develop skills and progress through the school, they are given greater choice. A comprehensive range of extra-curricular events and matches support our aims. The very high quality of provision and the wide range of partnerships have led to the award of Sportsmark status and significant success in a wide range of sports at district, regional and national level.

Soccer

Tennis

Netball

Exercise Activities

Trampolining

Rugby

Hockey

Cricket

Athletics

Cross Country

Volleyball

Badminton

Basketball

Orienteering

Health Related Fitness

Softball

Golf

Dance

Rounders

Water Polo

Aerobics

Life-Saving

Of course many students who choose PE at GCSE continue to study this subject at Sixth Form, either through BTEC or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Level courses.

World Sports

Religious Education Religious Education asks questions of ultimate importance – Where do we come from? Who am I? Where are we going? Why are we here? Am I here for a purpose? Is there a God? If so, how does that affect us? Is there an afterlife? These are some of our “starter questions” in Religious Education for exploring some of the fundamental issues of human existence.

The Religious Education course aims to help develop moral values, social skills, and an appreciation of the spiritual dimension within the human condition. Students are encouraged to explore their own beliefs, and those of others, to help them make reasoned, informed judgements about religious, moral and spiritual questions in a pluralistic society. Following the York Diocesan syllabus, our Religious Education studies Christianity and the teaching and principles of other major religious traditions, to encourage – from Year 7 through to ‘A’ Level in Years 12 and 13 – a broad understanding, respect for and appreciation of the beliefs of others.

Citizenship forms part of RE and Guidance and is an important part of the school curriculum, of students’ personal development, and of our Church School ethos. It aims to develop the whole person – body, mind and spirit – focusing on values and attitudes within school and community, and on developing students’ self-awareness, self-esteem, health, study skills, careers guidance, problemsolving, teamwork, social responsibility and care for others. It also aims to foster a positive approach to learning; develop students’ personal, social and communication skills, independence and confidence; and promote an environment within which individuals growing towards adulthood accept responsibility – for themselves and each other, in the affairs of the school, and in the wider community.

Collective worship follows the teaching of the Church of England, but a broad approach is taken, in keeping with the inclusive character of the Anglican tradition. Members of the Chaplaincy team take part on a regular basis; so too, from time to time, do representatives of other denominations. Our Assemblies provide a time for personal stillness and reflection and the opportunity to reflect upon shared values and the spiritual dimension of human existence, as well as the celebration of activities and achievement. Parents considering withdrawing their children from RE or collective worship are invited to discuss the matter first with the Headteacher.

Science At Archbishop Holgate’s School we see Science as relevant and exciting. We aim to give all students the best possible preparation for a rapidly changing technological society, through a scientific awareness relevant both to the workplace and to daily life. In Years 7 to 9 all students follow an integrated Science course emphasising the links between science and society. Practical study units introduce students to key scientific ideas that form the basis of their studies through to GCSE. Biology, Chemistry, Physics and investigative skills are developed through the six key ideas of energy, organisms, how chemicals and materials behave, electricity and forces, the environment, and behaviour and health. All units include the latest National Curriculum changes. Students receive regular homework – research, writing up, conducting a short survey, collecting information, learning, or revising for an end–of–unit test. There are regular assessments to monitor students’ progress and practical skills. In Years 10 and 11, all students spend 20% of their school week following a broad and balanced Science course. This takes a practical and investigative approach and normally leads to a double GCSE qualification – Core Science, normally taken in Year 10, plus Additional Science. Some students may follow the very successful Applied Science course which explores links between Science and society.

Others may follow GCSE courses in the three separate Sciences of Physics, Chemistry and Biology. There are many opportunities for enrichment work and extension work. Throughout their upper school work, students are taught by members of staff with specialist topic expertise. For each student, one member of the Science staff takes a lead in coursework, reports and contact with parents – to ensure continuity, to monitor progress, and to ensure that each student progresses in Science to the best of his or her ability. Science is taught in a suite of six up-to-the-minute laboratories. Two more, fully equipped for ‘A’ Level studies in Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Applied Science, are part of our Sixth Form provision. We have close links with Science City York, Smith and Nephew, the National Science Learning Centre and many other local Science–based organisations. We aim to help students become confident citizens in an increasingly technological world. We hope to stimulate curiosity about Science and its applications, an understanding of its limits, respect for living things, concern for personal health, care for the environment and wonder at the universe – and so prepare students for their future lives as informed citizens or for further study.

Sixth Form education Our purpose built Sixth Form offers Sixth Form provision of the highest quality at Archbishop Holgate’s in a dedicated learning environment with state-of-the-art facilities. We are committed to ensuring that qualities at the heart of the school’s success – Christian values, care for the individual and high achievement – are key features of the Sixth Form provision at our Sixth Form. We are equally committed to the highest quality guidance and support as our students move towards independence. A great emphasis is placed on a professional and business like working environment, with every student known as an individual and cared for as an individual; a Sixth Form in which our students can feel secure, supported and can give their very best. Our aim is to create a positive, warm atmosphere, in which every student can work hard, receive recognition for their achievements and aim for excellence, and in which students and our experienced staff can work together with mutual respect, courtesy and consideration for each other.

When work is not completed on time or behaviour is unprofessional the Sixth Form will take a firm but supportive line and challenge the student to improve. We provide our students with every opportunity for the best possible education, through a curriculum which is broad and balanced. As well as a suite of ‘A’ Level, Advanced Diploma and BTEC courses, qualifications that combine academic rigour and applied learning, we also offer a highly successful Work Related Learning programme. These qualifications are central to our Sixth Form provision to ensure the school makes a distinctive contribution to the City’s educational provision and future economic and employment needs, and most importantly meets the needs of all of our students as they prepare for university. Business links are outstanding. Collaboration is at the heart of the provision, offering opportunities to develop learning and enrichment opportunities here and in partnership with other high performing schools and businesses. We value a close working relationship between students, parents and the Sixth Form. If you would like to find out more about Archbishop Holgate’s Sixth Form please make an appointment to see the Director of Sixth Form.

Director of Sixth Form

Additional information Moving into secondary school The school day School life Homework School uniform Travelling to & from school School meals Extra-curricular activities & trips Admissions Admissions Policy for Year 7 2012 Further information Archbishop Holgateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School governors

Moving into secondary school We recognise that starting secondary school is a significant moment for each young person and their family and at Archbishop Holgate’s we are proud of the successful transition arrangements that offer support and security during this process. During their last half term at Primary school, many Year 6 students transferring to Archbishop Holgate’s School are visited at their primary school by members of the Pastoral team including the Head of Year 7. The purpose of this visit is to allay any fears they may have about transferring to secondary school. All information passed on is student orientated, and informs them of what to expect, and what is expected of them. Students are given a chance to ask questions at this informal meeting and wherever possible we try to place students into classes with some children that they already know, to help them settle in quickly and feel valued. This is followed in June by a Welcome Evening for Year 6 parents and their children. The purpose of the evening is to welcome both students and parents alike, inform them of specific procedures, remind them of the impending Day Visit and meet members of the School Association.

All Year 6 students are then given a day release from their primary schools to spend a day at Archbishop Holgate’s. The visit usually runs from 10.00am to 3.00pm on the first Wednesday in July. Students meet their Form Tutor and the other members of their Form for the first time; begin to become familiar with day-to-day routines and the layout of the school; sample the school lunch system; and spend an afternoon in lessons. A number of other initiatives are also in place, including work with Year 5 students in Science, Maths, Technology, English and Music, Modern Languages and PE. Once school starts in September students meet their Form Tutor each day. This is the person who will be responsible for their pastoral care, support them in their progress, and encourage them to make the most of the many opportunities at Archbishop Holgate’s School. A number of other staff help new students feel at home as quickly as possible. Mrs Sylph, the Assistant Head for Pastoral Care and Inclusion, oversees the welfare and progress of students throughout their first years at Archbishop Holgate’s, and in particular works hard to ensure the smoothest possible transition into the school from our partner primary schools. She is assisted by Miss Nicol, the Head of Year 7. All pastoral staff work closely together under the guidance of Mrs Lawes, Head of Staff

Our Values Forgiveness Following Jesus’ example forgiveness is at the centre of all we do. Showing forgiveness requires us to have courage and strength, bringing us freedom from anger and a sense of peace. Forgiveness means we take responsibility for what we have done wrong and we desire not to do again.

and Students, to support and advise students and parents, and, working with Form Tutors, to oversee the progress and welfare of the students in their care.

We fully understand the need to ensure an effective transition from primary to secondary school and strive to go the extra mile to ensure that this happens.

The Form Tutor or the Head of Year are therefore the people to contact first in school if you, or your child, have any worries or difficulties. Please do not hesitate to ring or e-mail our School Receptionists, so that they can make an appointment for you to see the most appropriate member of staff.

We also value the part that parents can play in this and as such all parents are automatically members of the School Association, which organises a range of events during the year promoting links between home and school. Parents and staff are able to meet to discuss matters of interest; members of the community are warmly welcomed. Money raised is used to benefit the education and opportunities of all the students in the school. Year 7 parents are invited to a Reception Evening in September at which they can meet their child’s Head of Year and senior staff. A typical year’s School Association programme may include events ranging from a quiz night to a fashion show, line dancing to an auction of promises. The aim in each case is to combine an enjoyable evening with support for the school. School Association members also do excellent work meeting prospective parents at Open Evening, serving refreshments at concerts and shows, and helping with the Year 6 Welcome Evening.

Our whole-school approach to Special Needs is designed to help all students take full advantage of what Archbishop Holgate’s has to offer. We aim to be sensitive to the full range of needs and abilities. Our highly regarded programme of Extension Studies provides special outof-hours learning courses of study for gifted and talented students. For those needing help with academic progress or social skills, Learning Support helps students gain confidence in basic skills. This may be in small groups with specialist teachers, in the classroom with support from a school assistant, one-to-one with another adult in our well-resourced Learning Support environment, or through special learning materials in the student’s usual classroom. One-to-one counselling, guidance and support may also be arranged when needed through our Intensive Support Worker.

The school day 8:50

Bell - students enter school for registration with form teachers. (Students who need to arrive early are welcomed into the school library.)